Which kingdom obtains food by ingesting and digesting other organisms (heterotrophs)?

Prepare for your College Biology Exam 1 with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Test your understanding with detailed explanations and hints to ensure success in your biology exam!

Multiple Choice

Which kingdom obtains food by ingesting and digesting other organisms (heterotrophs)?

Explanation:
Heterotrophs obtain carbon and energy by consuming other organisms or their remains. Plants are autotrophs, making their own food through photosynthesis. Fungi feed by external digestion: they secrete enzymes into their surroundings to break down organic matter and then absorb the resulting nutrients. This extracellular digestion and nutrient absorption is a classic way fungi acquire food, illustrating heterotrophy. While animals also rely on heterotrophy through ingestion, the feeding strategy described aligns with fungi, making them the best fit for this statement.

Heterotrophs obtain carbon and energy by consuming other organisms or their remains. Plants are autotrophs, making their own food through photosynthesis. Fungi feed by external digestion: they secrete enzymes into their surroundings to break down organic matter and then absorb the resulting nutrients. This extracellular digestion and nutrient absorption is a classic way fungi acquire food, illustrating heterotrophy. While animals also rely on heterotrophy through ingestion, the feeding strategy described aligns with fungi, making them the best fit for this statement.

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